Title
A Resolution Of The City Commission Of The City Of Hollywood, Florida, Naming The Police Athletic League (PAL) Facility As “Detective Jerry Christiansen PAL Center.”
Strategic Plan Focus
Communications & Civic Engagement
Body
Staff Recommends: Approval of the attached Resolution.
Explanation:
Detective Jerry Christiansen played a pivotal role in shaping youth intervention programs in Hollywood. His efforts began with a personal investment, keeping basketballs, footballs, bats, and baseball gloves in the trunk of his police car, which evolved into a city-supported initiative. Through his advocacy, the City Commission initially provided Boggs Field (West) as a dedicated PAL facility, laying the foundation for a structured program that has positively influenced thousands of local youth.
Detective Christiansen’s vision and leadership expanded PAL’s offerings to include basketball, football, boxing, and academic programs. His vision ultimately led to the construction of the current PAL facility, located at 2311 N. 23 Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33020, which was formally dedicated in 2001.
This facility now serves 200 to 450 youth daily, particularly from the underserved Liberia neighborhood and surrounding neighborhoods, reinforcing the Police Department’s commitment to community-oriented policing and effectively engaging the youth in our community.
On March 25, 2026, Vice Mayor Callari proposed naming the PAL facility, located at 2311 N. 23 Avenue as “Detective Jerry Christiansen PAL Center.” The request received City Commission support.
The Naming Policy provides that any proposed naming that is initiated by a City Commissioner shall be placed on a publicly noticed City Commission agenda for consideration without having to first be evaluated by the Naming Review Committee. The City Commission member who proposes the naming is encouraged to seek community input for the proposed change.
Fiscal Impact:
Approval of this Resolution will not fiscally impact the City.
Recommended for inclusion on the agenda by:
Patricia A. Cerny, City Clerk
Adam Reichbach, Assistant City Manager